Press release

Environment Agency launches new Anglian Pass for boaters

Boaters now have the option to purchase an 'Anglian Pass' which allows them to navigate unrestricted across neighbouring navigations.

The front of an Environment Agency patrol boat on an empty river.

The pass allows boaters to move between different waterways without having to pay multiple registration fees.

The Environment Agency, the Conservators of the River Cam, and the Middle Level Commissioners worked together to develop the new pass. The pass covers the River Nene, the Great Ouse system, the Middle Level Navigation and the River Cam.

The new annual pass went live on April 1 to mark the start of the boating season. It allows boaters to move easily between different waterways without having to pay multiple registration fees.

Nathan Arnold, Waterways Team Leader for the Environment Agency, said:

We want to be recognised as a champion for our waterways delivering a service that protects the environment and is valued by customers.  

The aim with the pass was to provide a simple, fair and cost effective system for boating customers across all 3 navigations.

We are really pleased that many customers have already chosen to take up this option and are ready for the new boating season.

Tom Larnach, River Manager, Cam Conservancy, said:

The Cam Conservancy is excited to be part of the future of boating within the Anglian Region.

This pass will open up our rivers to boaters from across the country, enabling quick, easy and affordable access to hundreds of miles of beautiful East Anglian waterways.

David Thomas, Chief Executive of the Middle Level Commissioners, said:

When the Middle Level Commissioners started its journey towards seeking new powers to levy charges on pleasure craft for using their waters. It was the stated intention to work with neighbouring authorities to provide an option to make moving between navigations as painless as possible.

This pass is therefore seen as a real milestone in delivering on this promise.

More information about the new pass as well as river advice and Navigation Notices, can be found at https://www.visitanglianwaterways.org

Published 14 May 2021